In Jackson, the typical Baker earns about $15 per hour, slightly below the national average but still competitive for the region. This rate is influenced by the type of restaurant, the size of the business, the Baker’s level of expertise and other key factors.
If you're curious about where Bakers earn the top salaries in Jackson — or want to maximize your own income in this field — this guide is for you. We’ll highlight some of the city’s best-paying bakeries and restaurants and break down what influences earnings for Bakers locally.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Bakers in Jackson
While hourly wages for Bakers can vary in Jackson, some establishments are known for their generous pay and supportive work environments. Below are top picks where experienced Bakers can expect higher-than-average compensation and valuable on-the-job experience.
Campbell’s Bakery
Established in 1962, Campbell’s Bakery is an iconic Jackson institution famous for its Southern-style cakes and handmade pastries. With steady business and a loyal customer base, Bakers enjoy both stability and opportunities for overtime pay.
Broad Street Baking Company & Café
This bustling café and bakery in Highland Village is renowned for its European breads, hearty breakfasts and wedding cakes. Bakers here are rewarded for their skill in artisan bread and pastry techniques, often earning higher hourly rates than the local market average.
La Brioche Patisserie
Known for bringing authentic French pastry to Jackson, La Brioche is run by sisters from Argentina trained in Paris. Bakers working here refine their craft and tend to receive competitive pay, plus tips from customers who appreciate gourmet quality.
The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen
This upscale eatery is celebrated for its wood-fired cuisine and in-house breads and desserts. The kitchen invests in quality ingredients, often valuing Bakers with sourdough or artisanal bread experience — and offering compensation to match.
Primos Cafe
A southern staple since 1929, Primos is well-loved for its classic pies, cinnamon rolls and desserts. Bakers with attention to tradition and speed can earn steady pay in a vibrant, established workplace.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Baker Earnings
Casual vs. Upscale Establishments
Bakers employed at upscale restaurants or specialty bakeries generally receive higher compensation than those working in fast-food or casual chain bakeries. Upscale venues favor candidates with advanced pastry skills, artisanal bread expertise or culinary certifications.
Independent Bakeries
Working for a well-established, independently owned bakery can mean more creative input and in some cases, share of tip pools or special bonuses. These businesses usually value reliability and passion for baking — rewarding staff with pay increases over time.
Influencing Factors
- Certifications: Formal culinary or pastry education often boosts hourly wage.
- Shift Schedules: Early morning or overnight shifts sometimes come with shift differentials (extra pay).
- Location: Bakeries in busy shopping centers or downtown often provide greater tip opportunities and steady customer volume.
How To Find a High Paying Baker Job in Jackson
- Polish Your Resume: Highlight any experience in artisan bread, specialty pastry or cake design.
- Gather Certifications: Culinary school credentials or food safety certificates can set you apart.
- Leverage Local Networks: Connect with culinary schools and hospitality managers to learn about the best-paying openings.
- Visit In Person: Drop off your resume at busy bakeries or cafes during slow hours to make a strong impression.
- Prepare for Interviews: Practice talking about your signature baked goods and baking techniques to show off your skills.
- Ask About Overtime and Benefits: Inquire about holiday pay, insurance and bonus opportunities.
What’s the Outlook for Baker Jobs in Jackson in 2025 and Beyond?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that Baker employment will grow about 5% from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as the average for other jobs. In Jackson, growth is driven by local demand for artisan baked goods and expanding café and restaurant scenes.
Hospitality businesses are increasingly seeking Bakers who specialize in high-quality, scratch-made products. As more venues prioritize unique, locally produced baked goods, skilled Bakers should see steady to slightly rising demand — with the best prospects at established bakeries and upscale cafes.
Jackson’s population is stable and hospitality investment remains strong, so positions for Bakers are expected to remain available and potentially grow, especially for those with specialty baking skills.
Is a Baker’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Jackson?
Earning $15 per hour as a Baker in Jackson amounts to about $31,000 per year (full-time, before taxes). Jackson’s cost of living is lower than the national average, making it more feasible to cover the basics and even save depending on your hours and experience.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment (city center): $950/month
- Utilities: $150/month
- Groceries: $300–$400/month
For Bakers with consistent hours or those who can supplement their income with special orders or overtime, it’s possible to live comfortably. Housing and daily expenses are manageable on a Baker’s salary, especially compared to larger U.S. cities.
If you work at a top-paying restaurant or take advantage of extra shifts, you may even find opportunities to save for the future.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Jackson Baker Jobs
We selected these bakeries and restaurants based on several crucial factors to ensure Jackson’s Bakers find the best opportunities:
- Competitive Pay: Businesses offering above-average hourly wages or overtime options.
- Benefits: Access to health insurance, paid time off or bonuses.
- Location: Central areas with frequent customer turnover or in established, high-traffic neighborhoods.
- Employee Reputation: Venues known for treating staff well, supporting career development and nurturing a positive work culture.
These criteria help ensure every recommended employer is a standout for both earning potential and workplace satisfaction.